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Opening Power to Diversity - call for applicants

Following the successful launch of the Opening Power to Diversity scheme last year, Crosscare Migrant Project (CMP) are now accepting applications for the second term of this ground breaking scheme which will run from September 2012 to March 2013.

The Opening Power to Diversity scheme will match volunteer migrants with a number of TDs. Over a six month period beginning in September migrants will get a unique and valuable experience and insight into how politics works in Ireland by observing and assisting the TD in his/her daily work.

Role Description: The migrant participant will follow the work of the TD during the day and participate in the activities of his/her office. Migrants will use their skills while getting involved in the TD’s activities, they will attend various meetings with TDs and observe at Committee meetings and Dáil sessions. Migrants will also get involved in the work of the TD’s office at Leinster House and constituency level. Migrants will also be expected to keep a weekly written or video diary of their experiences and input into CMP’s policy team at the end of the scheme. Orientation and on-going support will be provided by CMP.

Time commitment: Two days a week over a six month period, excluding time spent on the diary. The six month period will comprise of the Dáil terms before and after Christmas 2012.

Applicant requirements: The initiative is focused on non-EEA nationals or non-EEA nationals who have recently become Irish citizens1. For logistical and management reasons the scheme is initially only working with politicians based in counties Dublin, Louth, Meath, Kildare and Wicklow. It is preferable that applicants also live in this area.

Essential: Applicants will need to be good written and verbal communicators. It is also essential that applicants have an interest in politics at some level. Reliability and commitment to the aims of the scheme are essential along with an ability to work well under pressure and an ability to use initiative. An ability to work well in a team is also essential.

Desirable: Skills and/or experience in the following areas would be desirable:
Research, community work, office administration, Information Technology, any relevant educational or work experience related to politics. Particular subject expertise or interests may also be relevant.

Application process: Please e-mail your CV as an attachment to Sarah Owen at sarahowen6@crosscare.ie with an attached letter of application that includes an answer to the following question: Why do you want to participate in the Opening Power to Diversity scheme? Max 300 words.

There is no financial remuneration for participation in this scheme and there is no expectation of paid employment with the TD at the end of the six month placement.
Closing date for applications: Friday May 4th

This project is co-financed by the European Commission under the European Integration Fund and is supported by the Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration in the Department of Justice & Equality and Pobal.

1 Applicants need to have legal permission to reside in the state and either have a Stamp 1, 3, 4 or 5 or be recently naturalised Irish citizens.

Supported by

This project is co-financed by the European Commission under the European Integration Fund and is supported by the Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration in the Dept of Justice & Equality & Pobal.